Women of our World (Cultural Event #5)

                On Friday May 2^nd I attended my fifth and final cultural event. The event was “Women around the World” and it was held in the BMU. The event was a discussion which consisted of five international women speakers. Each woman came from different backgrounds; there was Vanita from India, Montoko from Japan, Susana from Costa Rica, Khylood from Saudi Arabia, and Shu-Ting from China. Being that they were from foreign countries where women do not get the type of opportunities as in the United States or some other countries (or so I thought), it was surprising to know that each was studying and pursuing degrees. Vanita is getting her degree in Computer Science, Shu-Ting – computer graphics, Khylood – MIS, Montoko – computer graphics, and Susana – teaching international languages.

                During the question and answer set-up, much knowledge was gained on my part about women’s opportunities in other nations. It was definitely noticed that these women took great pride in their education. Each prided themselves on their pursuit of success that they were achieving. Their discussion kind of made me make the connection as to how the many international students, especially women, that I have had contact with over the years always have solid grades. They make the most of their opportunities and give it everything they have. I wish at times I had that motivation.

                Another part of the questions and answers greatly dealt with the marital status of the women. It was not all that surprising to find that most of the women came from nations where women are usually housewives; because based on the education I have received it hasn’t been until recently that women have been allowed to expand their horizons by working outside of the home, especially in Asian nations. Of all the speakers only Khylood was married; for eight months to a man she met in the states.

                All in all this event was a great learning experience. Even though it was simply question and answer, to hear of the nations that these women came from and the new path that has been put in front of them is quite exciting. It makes me happy that our world is slowly but surely starting to change and women are finally getting the opportunity to compete with the men. Before our times it was unheard of for women to be on the same plateau as men, which definitely prohibited some of the great minds from reaching their full potential.